A lifelong Republican political activist, first elected to Limavady Borough Council, where he became mayor, the Dungiven-born father-of-one was elected to the Assembly in May 2011.

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I've always had an interest in politics and in delivery on the ground and have recognised the geographical differences in service provision in the north west and I hope to address some of that.

Apart from work and family, what are your main passions in life?

My other passions are local history, flora and fauna, hill walking, angling, book collecting and GAA, particularly hurling.

What single issue do you hope to champion in the Assembly ?

Infrastructure in the north west, especially the A6 project, with the Dungiven bypass at its core, as well as the upkeep of the Derry-Coleraine rail line and the possibility of a link-up with Sligo.

What, if anything, is in most urgent need of change in the Stormont structures ?

The committee system needs reformed to ensure more on-the-ground representation.

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